M23 Rebels Flee From a key DRC Town Ahead of the Crucial Doha Peace Talks

The M23 rebel group has evacuated from the crucial town of Walikale in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), describing the move as a goodwill gesture ahead of the Congolese government’s scheduled peace talks in Doha on April 9.

Since January, M23 has taken control of major cities in eastern DRC, killing thousands of people and displacing hundreds of thousands. The group’s quick rise has generated concerns about a larger regional conflict involving neighbouring nations such as Uganda and Burundi.

Walikale is strategically placed on a road that connects four eastern DRC provinces and is situated in a mineral-rich area, particularly tin reserves. The town had remained under M23 control despite prior promises to depart, with the rebels accusing the Congolese army of not implementing its commitments, including the withdrawal of attack drones.

Locals, officials, and the Congolese army all confirmed the rebels’ evacuation from Walikale. However, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka warned that the government’s ongoing provocations could jeopardise their goodwill gesture. Humanitarian organisations, including Doctors Without Borders, stated that the recent fighting in Walikale had trapped people and assistance teams, with crucial medical supplies running low.

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